National Native American Bar Association

Rooted in a legacy spanning five decades, the National Native American Bar Association based in Tempe, Arizona, stands as a unique professional organization where legal practice intersects with tribal citizenship and community responsibility. Unlike traditional bar associations focused solely on diversity goals, NNABA's members carry the distinctive dual identity of being both U.S. citizens and citizens of their respective Tribal nations—a distinction that shapes their professional mission and community obligations.

Established in 1973 as the American Indian Lawyers Association, the organization underwent several transformations before adopting its current name in 1980, reflecting the inclusive scope of its representation. Today, NNABA encompasses American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians, recognizing the diverse indigenous populations whose legal interests require specialized advocacy and understanding. The organization's chapter system creates a democratic structure where state-level Indian bar associations maintain equal voice in organizational governance, ensuring that the needs of Native American legal professionals across every region of the country are represented.

What distinguishes NNABA is the communal responsibility its members share—either directly or indirectly—for protecting the governmental sovereignty of over 560 independent Native American Tribal governments. The Tempe, AZ-based association understands that its lawyers do more than practice law; they safeguard the rights, autonomy, and self-determination of their tribal nations. This profound commitment to both professional excellence and tribal sovereignty defines the organization's identity and mission.